Announcement of Senate Run
U.S. Representative Angie Craig officially announced her campaign for the U.S. Senate seat in Minnesota. She is aiming to succeed retiring Senator Tina Smith in the 2026 election. Craig, a Democrat representing Minnesota’s 2nd Congressional District since 2019, shared her decision on April 29, 2025. In her announcement, she focused on her commitment to fighting for working families and opposing the policies of former President Donald Trump and the Republican Party.
Personal Story and Campaign Message
In her launch video, Craig talked about her life story, starting from growing up in a mobile home park to becoming a member of Congress. She positioned herself as an underdog who has overcome many challenges. Craig criticized the “chaos and corruption” she says is happening in Washington and pledged to stand strong against what she called a “cowardly Republican Party.”
Democratic Field and Fundraising Advantage
Craig joins a growing group of Democratic candidates, including Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan and former state Senate Minority Leader Melisa López Franzen. While Flanagan has earned endorsements from major figures like Attorney General Keith Ellison and former Senator Al Franken, and López Franzen has gained legislative support, Craig brings a large financial advantage. Her House campaign account has more than $1.2 million ready to use for her Senate race.
Political Background and Stance
Craig is known for being a centrist and often working with Republicans. She has previously received endorsements from law enforcement groups and has supported some bipartisan efforts in Congress.
She currently serves as the ranking member of the House Agriculture Committee and has focused her work on public safety, economic growth, and border security.
Impact on Her Congressional Seat
Craig’s decision to run for Senate will open up Minnesota’s 2nd Congressional District. This district, made up of suburban and rural areas south of Minneapolis and St. Paul, could become highly competitive.
Craig won re-election there by 13 points in 2024, but it has been a battleground district in past elections.
Republican Challengers
On the Republican side, former NBA player Royce White and Iraq War veteran Adam Schwarze have already announced their campaigns for the open Senate seat. Political experts expect the 2026 Minnesota Senate race to be closely watched nationwide, especially because Senate control could hang in the balance.
Focus of Craig’s Senate Campaign
Craig’s Senate campaign will focus on “kitchen table” issues — healthcare, education, and economic opportunity. She plans to build a broad coalition, drawing on her experiences in both business and government. Her campaign aims to appeal to working families and voters across different parts of Minnesota.
Looking Ahead
As the Democratic primary race heats up, Minnesotans will have the chance to decide who they believe best represents the state’s future. Angie Craig hopes her story and her record will connect with voters ready for strong leadership in Washington.he candidates’ visions for Minnesota’s future and determine who is best equipped to represent the state in the U.S. Senate.
